CAUSE:

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

INCUBATION PERIOD:

Usually 1-3 days, but may range from 12 to 36 hours up to 1 week

MODE OF TRANSMISSION:

By direct or indirect fecal-oral transmission from an infected person, the ingestion of contaminated food or water, or from person to person. Individuals primarily responsible for transmission are those who fail to clean hands and under fingernails thoroughly after defecation.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES:

Use of Standard/Universal Precautions including instruction on proper hand washing and personal hygiene, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. Proper storage and cooking of food is important and should be carefully monitored.

PERIOD OF COMMUNICABILITY:

During acute infection and until the bacteria is no longer present in feces, usually within four weeks after illness.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL:

Exclude student from school. Student must have healthcare provider’s note to return to school. Outbreaks at school will require investigation by the Department of Health-Broward, who will recommend appropriate control measures to Coordinated Student Health Services. Immediately report diagnosed case to Coordinated Student Health Services at 754-321-1575.